Half day boat diving experience for beginners in Kos Greece

Exploring the waters around Kos with a half-day beginner-friendly scuba experience is a pretty special way to get your toes wet—literally. This tour, offered by Liamis Dive Centre, takes roughly 5 and a half hours, departing early in the morning and returning by mid-afternoon, giving you just enough time to learn, explore, and relax. It’s designed for folks new to diving or snorkeling, with small groups of no more than ten, so you can expect personal attention from expert instructors. The highlight? Sailing to Pserimos Island and discovering its calm, protected bay, perfect for your first undersea adventures.

What I really like about this experience is how approachable and carefully structured it is. The included gear takes the fuss out of preparing for your first underwater journey, and the small group size ensures that you’ll feel less like a number and more like a guest. Plus, the knowledgeable instructors, often praised for making everything simple and clear, help even the most hesitant to feel at ease. The chance to snorkel first, as many reviews mention, helps you get comfortable with the water before stepping into the scuba gear. However, one thing to consider is that this tour is a shorter introduction, so if you’re craving a full-day experience or a more advanced course, this might be just a taste. For most, though, that’s actually part of its charm.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: Perfect if you’ve never tried scuba before or aren’t confident swimmers.
• All equipment included: No need to rent or worry about gear—just show up ready to learn.
• Small group setting: Ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Brief but comprehensive: About 20-25 minutes underwater, enough to get a real sense of what diving feels like.
• Stunning protected bay: Gentle depths and crystal-clear water create a safe environment for learning.
• Option to snorkel or take a second dive: Flexibility to extend your adventure, at an extra cost.

The full story behind the experience

If you’re like me, the idea of trying something new can be a little intimidating, but this half-day boat trip in Kos offers a pretty balanced approach that takes the stress out of your first underwater encounter. Organized by Liamis Dive Centre, this experience departs early from the port around 8:30 am, giving you ample daylight to enjoy the sea, the sun, and your new skills. The boat ride to Pserimos Island is part of the fun—the water sparkling under the sun, and the promise of new adventures ahead.

Once on the island, the real magic begins with an in-depth briefing where your guides walk you through diving safety, the proper use of equipment, and what to expect during your dive. This helps allay any nerves and sets a positive tone. You’ll be placed in small groups of 4-5, led by two instructors, which means you’re never just a number. Instead, you’ll have tailored guidance, an aspect that many reviews praise—”fantastic team,” “helpful and kind,” are phrases repeated across feedback.

The dive itself is within a protected bay, with rocky outcrops on either side acting as natural borders. The water here reaches a maximum depth of about 5 meters—perfect for beginners—while the water’s incredible clarity makes it feel like floating in a giant, glassy aquarium. Expect to stay submerged for about 20-25 minutes, during which you’ll see a delightful variety of marine life, take underwater photos, and get a true feel for what it’s like to breathe underwater (with your instructor’s help, of course). One reviewer mentions the guide, Mehali, as “fantastic,” and many say the instructors’ calm, clear explanations helped even those who previously struggled with diving.

After your first breath-taking dive, you’ll have a relaxation break—perfect for reorienting yourself and soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Then, you can opt for a second dive for an additional 45 euros, or simply relax on the sun deck, swim, or snorkel—whatever floats your boat. The environment is calm and safe, making it ideal for families and anyone wanting a gentle debut into scuba or snorkeling.

All the gear you need—mask, fins, wetsuit, regulator—is included, which offers good value at $109.90 per person. Reviews consistently highlight the affordability, especially considering the professional guidance and beautiful setting. While some reviews mention optional extras like photos or a second dive at extra cost, the core experience already feels substantial, especially for first-timers.

The tour wraps up around 2:30 pm back at the port, leaving you a good part of the afternoon free to explore Kos further or relax. Because it’s a small group tour—no more than 10 travelers—you won’t feel rushed or lost among larger crowds. This makes the experience particularly suited for those who appreciate personal attention and a more relaxed pace.

Who is this for?

This trip is best suited for beginners or those with limited diving experience who want a safe, fun introduction without the pressures of a full certification course. It’s also perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to try something new in a beautiful setting. If you’re curious about diving but unsure if you’ll like it, this tour offers a low-commitment, high-reward taste.

Practical tips for your trip

• Book well in advance—on average, trips are booked about 25 days ahead—so plan to reserve early, especially during peak season.
• Wear lightweight clothing and bring sun protection; you’ll be spending part of the day outside and on the boat.
• If you’re unsure about doing a second dive or want to snorkel instead, those options are available but at extra cost.
• Consider taking a waterproof camera or phone case if you want photos underwater—that’s a popular addition for many reviews.
• The tour is suitable for people with moderate physical fitness, but you should be comfortable in the water and able to float or swim.

Final thoughts

This half-day boat diving experience hits the sweet spot for anyone looking to dip their toes into the world of scuba in Kos. It strikes a fine balance between safety, fun, and affordability, making it a superb choice for first-timers. The fact that all gear is included and guides are praised for their kindness and professionalism means you can focus on enjoying the moment without worry.

The stunning bay on Pserimos Island and the opportunity to see marine life up close make this a memorable highlight of a Greek vacation. Plus, many previous participants have gone on to book more advanced courses, which speaks volumes about the quality of instruction. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, crossing an item off your bucket list, or simply exploring new hobbies, this trip delivers.

If you’re someone who values personalized attention, clear safety instructions, and the chance to enjoy spectacular waters without feeling rushed, this experience is tailor-made for you. It’s a genuine, affordable way to discover the joys of the underwater world with a reputable local operator.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for people who don’t swim well?
While you don’t need to be a strong swimmer, you should have moderate physical fitness and be comfortable floating or treading water. The instructors will guide you to ensure you feel safe.

What is included in the price?
All necessary scuba and snorkeling equipment are provided. The tour also includes the boat ride, safety briefing, and guidance from professional instructors.

Can I participate if I’ve never tried scuba before?
Absolutely. This experience is designed specifically for beginners, so no prior experience is needed. It’s a great way to see if you enjoy the underwater world.

What is the maximum depth of the dive?
The dive occurs within a bay that reaches a maximum depth of about 5 meters, ideal for beginners and for viewing marine life without feeling overwhelmed.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen, lightweight clothing, and a towel. If you’d like photos, consider waterproof gear or a waterproof camera.

Is there an option for a second dive?
Yes, you can opt for a second dive for 45 euros, or just relax and enjoy snorkeling or swimming on the boat deck.

In all, this tour offers a genuine chance to see the beauty of Greece’s waters up close, with safety and fun at the forefront. Perfect for novices eager to try something new or those wanting a relaxed, guided introduction to scuba diving.